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A neatly organized desk with tax documents, a laptop displaying a tax return form, and a cup of coffee, symbolizing the process of obtaining a copy of your tax return.

How to Obtain a Copy of Your Tax Return

3 min read
Sources (9)
financelaw and legal issuesgovernmentaccounting

Summary

Understand the difference between a tax return transcript (free summary) and a tax return copy (exact copy, fee required). Obtain tax info via IRS online, phone, or mail. Use tax services or software for past returns. Processing times vary. State returns require contacting state departments.

Understanding Your Options

Before starting the process, it's important to understand the difference between a tax return transcript and a tax return copy:

  • Tax Return Transcript: A summary of your tax return showing most line items from your original return. It's free and usually sufficient for most purposes.
  • Tax Return Copy: An exact copy of your filed return with all attachments, available for a fee.

Methods for Obtaining Your Tax Return

Online Access

The fastest way to get your tax information is through the IRS website's Get Transcript tool. This service allows you to:

  • View and download tax records immediately
  • Access returns from the past three years
  • Obtain wage and income transcripts
  • Receive account transcripts showing changes made after filing

Phone Request

  • Call 1-800-908-9946 and follow the automated instructions
  • Available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday
  • Transcripts will be mailed to you

Mail Request

  1. Complete Form 4506-T for a free transcript
  2. Complete Form 4506 for an exact copy ($43 fee per return)
  3. Mail to the address specified on the form

Alternative Sources

Tax Preparation Services

If you used a professional tax preparation service, they should maintain copies of your returns:

  • H&R Block
  • TurboTax
  • Jackson Hewitt
  • Local CPAs

Note: Most tax preparers keep returns on file for at least three years.

Digital Tax Software

Access past returns through your online account with:

Processing Times and Security

Timeline

  • Online transcript requests: Immediate access
  • Mail requests: 5-10 business days
  • Form 4506 requests: Up to 75 calendar days

Security Requirements

The IRS requires:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Social Security number
  • Current email address (for online access)
  • Filing status
  • Mailing address from latest tax return

State Tax Returns

For state tax returns, contact your state's Department of Revenue. Most states offer:

  • Online access through state portals
  • Phone request options
  • Mail-in form submissions

Common Uses for Tax Returns

Tax return copies are often needed for:

  • Mortgage applications
  • Student loan processes
  • Immigration procedures
  • Legal matters
  • Financial aid applications
  • IRS audits
  • Amending a return

For more detailed guidance, visit the IRS official website. Remember to maintain organized records and store copies securely to avoid future retrieval needs.

Sources

WGet Transcripthttps://www.irs.gov/individuals/get-transcriptWForm 4506-Thttps://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506t.pdfWForm 4506https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506.pdfTTurboTaxhttps://turbotax.intuit.com/WH&R Block Onlinehttps://www.hrblock.com/WTaxActhttps://www.taxact.com/WIRS official websitehttps://www.irs.gov/WIRS2Gohttps://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs2goappWForm 4506-Thttps://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4506-t